Christian Artist SHOK Tops GarageBand.com All Time Pop Chart

Christian Rap artist Michael “SHOK” Gomez in just ten weeks has received over 40 awards from GarageBand.com including #14 Most Original in Pop, all-time, #6 Best Production in Pop, all-time, and #2 Best Lyrics in Pop, all-time and the good reviews just keep pouring in.

New York, NY -- April 19, 2006 -- Christian Rap artist Michael “SHOK” Gomez in just ten weeks has received over 40 awards from GarageBand.com including #14 Most Original in Pop, all-time, #6 Best Production in Pop, all-time, and #2 Best Lyrics in Pop, all-time and the good reviews just keep pouring in.

SHOK has sold over 13 million records on the producer side of things for artists like DMX, Eve, Busta Rhymes, Big Pun, Jadakiss, Snoop Dog, and many others. Then SHOK made a decision to change his path and seek a different kind of success.

On His blog on myspace.com/theLostTruth under “Why Does SHOK Rap About God” SHOK tells the gripping story of how he was at the top of the recording industry as one of the most sought-after producers for Hip-Hop only to leave after feeling empty inside with a vision that he could be doing something more meaningful with his life. While recording his CD the Lost Truth SHOK was stripped of his home and vehicles but still pressed on to complete the work that he believed in.

Fast forward two years with the thought provoking song WAKE UP starting to bloom we see SHOK speaking at colleges and telling kids in high school not to forget what’s important.

Michael “SHOK” Gomez tells kids and young adults a much different story than the one Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson tells of get rich or die trying. SHOK just like the lyrics of his song ask kids to Wake Up and realize that money isn’t everything and to get their lives together by realizing what’s important.

SHOK’s single and message are starting to catch on with WAKE UP being added to online stations, podcasts, and radio stations both college and commercial across the country. More opportunities for him to speak are opening up.

GarageBand.com reviewers describe SHOK’s music as Linkin Park mixed with The Black Eyed Peas. With comments like “This Rap/Pop hybrid hits the mark where so many have failed, and it’s a refreshing success. I love the Rock guitars and the sing-song quality of lyrics” and “You first get into the music and then realize it has a message. A few listens and you can start to appreciate that beyond the great rhythms and instrumental sections the lyrics are very positive and uplifting. SHOK seems to be changing the face of Rap and Hip Hop. I would not judge the CD as a religious work as much as a series of stories that will shine some light on your day to day life regardless of what your faith might be.” We think that SHOK may be on to something.

SHOK can be contacted for speaking engagements or concerts through his manager Martin Johnson at 216.255.6558.
Review SHOK’s press kit at http://www.crossdogs.com/shok
Website: http://www.myspace.com/thelosttruth and http://www.thelosttruth.com/
management website: http://www.firstchoiceonline.com
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Portraits of Black Ministers and Messengers

MESSENGERS: PORTRAITS OF AFRICAN AMERICAN MINISTERS, EVANGELISTS, GOSPEL SINGERS, AND OTHER MESSENGERS OF "THE WORD"

By David Ritz with photographs by Nicola Goode

"The selections are quite vivid - we can almost hear these saints preaching...both the words and images that Ritz has pulled together are inspiring." -- Publishers Weekly

New York, NY - In the best-selling tradition of Crowns: Portraits of Black Women in Church Hats, David Ritz and Nicola Goode have created a beautifully moving book, MESSENGERS: Portraits of African American Ministers, Evangelists, Gospel Singers, and Other Messengers of "the Word" (Doubleday, March 21st, 2006; $29.95; hardcover) In the course of writing this uplifting and inspirational book, David Ritz was so moved and inspired he became a Christian. MESSENGERS is a special tribute to the evangelists, gospel singers and ministers whose lives have not only inspired his personal faith, but have touched and changed millions. The book also features a wonderful sample of photographer Nicola Goode's stunning black-and-white portraits.

Ritz brings together reflections and wisdoms of unique messengers from all walks of life - ministers and musicians, singers and teachers, local and well-known preachers, mega stars and those only known in their neighborhoods. Each portrait includes powerful text and stunning photographs that inspire readers to think about how they too can be God's messengers.

There are stories from Bishop Noel Jones, Rev. Dr. Calvin Butts, Rev. Peter Gomes to gospel stars like Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Winans, Smokie Norful, and Candi Staton. From a Director of Student Formation and Seminary Chaplain at the Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Philadelphia to a pastor who also runs a window-washing business in Washington, D.C., each individual has a significant message to share. Stories like "Saturate the House with Praise" by Dr. Mable John, "Walking Epistles" by Dr. Arlene Church, and "Turn, Turn, Turn" by Pastor Reginald T. John Jr., bring to life God's grace and unending peace. Through the extraordinary voices of these mighty men and women of God, readers can see and experience the message of hope and love addressed directly to the heart.

Beautifully designed, featuring vivid and touching photographs, MESSENGERS will appeal to fans of Crowns and to Christians of all denominations and colors who seek a deeper understanding of the meaning and glories of their faith.

About The Authors:
DAVID RITZ co-author of Howling at the Moon, is the only four-time winner of the Ralph J. Gleason/Music Book Award for Best Music Book of the Year. He has written biographies of Marvin Gaye and jazz singer Jimmy Schott, and coauthored the autobiographies of Ray Charles, BB King, Aretha Franklin, and other entertainers. He lives in Los Angeles, California.

NICOLA GOODE, born and raised in Los Angeles, received her B.F.A. in photography from Yale University. She is a member of the Society of Motion Picture Still Photographers and has worked on numerous feature films. Her photographs have appeared in galleries in Los Angeles, Prague, and Havana. She lives in Los Angeles.

Personal Trainer in NYC Goes Large on Portion Control; TWTNYC Partners with Nukitchen

TWTNYC, Online-personaltraining-nyc.com is proud to partner with Nukitchenfood.com to create a simple 90 day plan for clients that's a delicious experience as well as an effective tool to manage eating habits through portion control.

New York, NY April 18, 2006 -- Ever hear that it takes 90 days to break a bad habit? Personal trainer Terri Walsh needed to help her busy clients understand and stick to portion control. Enter: NuKitchen, a meal delivery service dedicated to providing healthy convenient and delicious food. They have created a meal service program that provides TWTNYC, www.online-personaltraining-nyc.com clients with a simple 2 meal plan & snacks, freshly prepared, delivered, and monitored - daily.

TWTNYC, Online-personaltraining-nyc.com is proud to partner up with Nukitchen to bring TWTNYC's clients a truly delicious experience. Not only will TWTNYC's clients eat well, but Nukitchen designs gourmet portion controlled meals that inherently complement TWTNYC's personal training programs.

Terri Walsh, owner of TWTNYC says, "Many of my clients simply have no idea what the proper portion size is nor do they have time to shop and cook. Nukitchen freshly prepares the food using only the highest quality ingredients. However, I control the calorie content of each clients meal. Except dinner, after eating well all day, my clients are NATURALLY eating less at night. Thats breakfast, lunch, and snack(s) delivered directly to their door -5 days per week- for my recommended 90 day plan. On weekends they do as they wish, but most simply stay on the system without realizing it. They become conditioned gradually - and realize they CAN do this on their own, in their daily lives."

All the NuKitchen meals are pre-cooked so all thats needed is to re-heat in certain instances. Their chefs are highly skilled in the culinary arts, having worked at some of the city’s top food service establishments. Though their cuisine is Mediterranean based, they incorporate global flavors to provide delectable American, Asian, and Latin dishes. Their unique blend of herbs & spices combined with lean sources of protein, heart healthy oils and whole grains, make eating with NuKitchen a truly delicious experience!

Deliveries are made at night between the hours of 11pm-6:00am anywhere in Manhattan, parts of Queens and Brooklyn.

Now here's the best part. TWTNYC online-personaltraining-nyc.com's clients receive:

- Breakfast
- Lunch
- 2 snacks

Special price of $29.99 TWTNYC's 90 day plan.

Veteran Composer H. Leslie Adams' opera Blake chosen to be featured within the 2006 VOX: American Composers Showcase

New York City, N.Y. April 12, 2006 -- Adams opera Blake will feature singers from the roster of The New York City Opera Association who will perform a selected excerpt of the opera. The Showcase will take place at the Jack Skirball Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of New York University in New York City on May 6, 2006 at 2 p.m.

The annual Two-day showcase has been a platform for operas in the past such as Margeret Garner by Richard Danielpour and Librettist Toni Morrison and Little Woman by Mark Adamo to name a few. Mark Adamo is the Composer-in-Residence at The New York City Opera Association and the Chairman of the VOX Series which is also hosted by The New York City Opera Association. Since it's inception, New York City Opera has championed new works and several works have received their New York City and/or World premiere through the stage of the New York City Opera such as Lizzie Borden by Jack Beeson, Susannah by Carlisle Floyd, and most recent Lysistrata by Mark Adamo.

“I have always held in my heart the hope and chance of this labor of love and commitment to reach the world’s greatest stages and with this profound opportunity and honor of The New York City Opera Association inviting me to be apart of this year’s symposium, perhaps all of my years of work will now be shared with the world,” Adams said. “I have always received encouragement regarding the work and promoting the meaning of the work. I firmly believe, even in a world of difference and adversity; this work will join the many elements of unity amongst us all.”

Adams training includes studies with Dorothy Smith and Mina Eichenbaum (piano), Glenville High School, voice with John Howard Tucker; Oberlin College Conservatory of Music, Oberlin, Ohio, studied composition with Herbert Elwell and Joseph Wood, voice with Robert Fountain, piano with Emil Danenberg, B.M, studied composition with Robert Starer; studied composition with Vittorio Giannini, California State University at Long Beach, studied under Leon Dallin, and at Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, studied composition with Marshall Barnes, PhD., studied orchestration with Edward Mattila, Marcel Dick and Eugene O'Brien. Highlights Adams's orchestral works include those by the Prague Radio Symphony (under Julius Williams); the Iceland Symphony (under Everett Lee); the Cleveland Orchestra (under Jahja Ling, Gareth Morrell, Mathis Dulack and Alan Gilbert); the Buffalo Philharmonic (under Julius Rudel and William Eddins. Metropolitan Opera artists who have performed Adams' works include Sopranos Martina Arroyo and Veronica Tyler, Mezzo Sopranos Hilda Harris, Barbara Conrad and Florence Quivar; Tenors Seth McCoy and Curtis Rayam; and Baritone Ben Holt.

Long Island Comedian Announces Tour and Says You Can Go Home

Long Island native and Musical Comedian Evan Wecksell returns to New York for his 2006 "You Can Go Home" tour - a full slate of club, college and radio dates from April 15-22.

GREAT NECK, NY April 12, 2006 -- He may now live in Los Angeles, but Musical Comedian Evan Wecksell is returning to his Long Island performing roots in a big way. From Saturday, April 15 to Saturday April 22, Wecksell has announced his "You Can Go Home Tour," an eight-show stint across Long Island and New York City's clubs, colleges and radio stations.

At 27, Wecksell is young, but his experience is beyond his years. Last year he performed over 175 shows across the country and made his television debut on VH1's "I Love the 80s 3D." Earlier this year he appeared on VH1's "I Love Toys."

"The Toys series was great for me," says Wecksell. "People now call me the Rainbow Brite guy. I don't think it gets any better than this."

It will get better for Wecksell starting on Saturday, April 15 when he kicks off the tour by reuniting with anti-musician Steve Lieberman, "The Gangsta Rabbi" at Babylon's Pisces Cafe. In what is being called "Jews that Rock II," Wecksell and Lieberman will alternate several two song sets throughout the night. Their first Pisces show was a big hit in November, and this time around they return on tax day.

"April 15 is a big day for Jewish accountants everywhere, especially on Long Island," points out Wecksell. "This show will be a celebration of our people and their proficiency at handling money... even if we are performing for free."

The tour will continue with a rare morning performance at Suffolk County Community College (SCCC) in Brentwood. While most comedy happens after dark, SCCC student Fazila Gak believes the students will in primetime shape for comedy.

"It is going to be a great show," says Gak. "I'm so excited and anxious for Evan to come tour Long Island!"

Wecksell's stage tour will not only be prolific, but also diverse. On Wednesday, April 19 he will be hosting The Inter-Fraternity and Sorority Council Talent Show at SUNY Stony Brook. The very next night he will performing at United Cerebral Palsy Benefit at The Brokerage in Bellmore.

Wecksell will retake Manhattan on Friday, April 22 with a late night performance at Don't Tell Mama in Times Square. He also has more reasons to recommend than simply he will be playing there.

"It will be me and the fiancée [actress and singer Kelly Meyersfield] on the same show," promotes Wecksell. "And The Poole Party at Don't Tell Mama is drop dead hilarious. Ron Poole is the greatest emcee I've come across since I started doing this. And he makes old people kiss."

Wecksell's Friday night will then turn into Saturday morning as makes his first appearance on The Joey Reynolds Show, a late night, hang loose laugh riot on WOR Radio AM 710.

While Wecksell's schedule seems at capacity, he has a few surprise appearances up his sleeve.

"I'll pop up at a few places I've called home," hints Wecksell. "That's what this trip is about. Vintage Long Island."

Evan Wecksell - You Can Go Home Tour Dates

Saturday, April 15 / Webradio WCWP / www.webradiowcwp.com
Saturday, April 15 / Pisces Cafe / Babylon, Long Island
Monday, April 17 / Suffolk County Community College / Brentwood, Long Island
Wednesday, April 19 / SUNY Stony Brook / Stony Brook, Long Island
Thursday, April 20 / 21st Century Radio / WLIE AM 540
Thursday, April 20 / The Brokerage / Bellmore, Long Island
Friday, April 21 / Don't Tell Mama / New York City
Saturday, April 22 / The Joey Reynolds Show / WOR AM 710

For complete show information go to www.evanwecksell.com/ew_calendar.html.

About Evan Wecksell:
Stand-up Comedian and Singer/Songwriter Evan Wecksell is one of the funniest and most energetic performers to emerge from New York’s comedy clubs and musical venues. Often compared to comedic superstars Adam Sandler and Stephen Lynch, Evan’s act is a blend of comedy and music that celebrates dysfunctional relationships, endorses unorthodox career paths and makes fun of bad music. Last year, Evan appeared on VH1’s "I Love the 80s 3D," and this year he appeared on VH1's "I Love Toys." For more information on Evan Wecksell and to purchase his CDs, please visit www.EvanWecksell.com.

Brooklyn, New York Real Estate Broker With a Personal Touch

Jeff Grandis Advises When is the Right Time to Sell the Family Home or Investment Property

Brooklyn, NY April 11, 2006 -- In most cases when people consider selling their home, the decision relies less on the cycle of value in the real estate market and much more on the cycle of one’s life that they are approaching or are already in. If an individual is lucky and healthy enough to reach the stage in life where it’s best to simplify their life by not being tied down to the responsibility of owning a house, that decision is usually the most prudent one for most older folks. Some seniors delay and delay this decision beyond the time when it’s really appropriate for them to sell. Some seniors have the good fortune to have caring and involved family members to help them arrive at this most important decision at the right time so that the transition can be a smoother one.

Just last week Jeff Grandis concluded a transaction with Mrs. Eileen Sokoloski, a 50 year resident and owner of a store plus 2 family building investment property located in the Homecrest neighborhood of Brooklyn.

Mrs. Sokoloski was delighted with the results. “I am very pleased with the sale price of my property and everything that Jeff did.” Sokoloski went on to say “Jeff’s attitude was comforting and positive and he was always reliable because he did whatever he said he would do.”

Jeff Grandis, Associate Broker, affiliated with Fillmore Real Estate for over 18 years, has been called upon countless times in his career as a consultant on such matters. Jeff listens to his clients very carefully and helps them to decide if and when the right time has come for them to consider selling their house or investment property.

In addition to considering his clients' needs, Jeff Grandis also has followed the real estate market in Brooklyn for nearly 2 decades.

“The real estate market is a cycle,” says Grandis. “The market goes up and sometimes an uptrend can last for years. Such is the case in Brooklyn for the past 4-5 years. However, uptrends can only sustain themselves so long. Eventually the winds of economic change prevail, in the form of either rising fuel prices and interest rates or an unforetold event or disaster such as the September 11th terrorist attack on the World Trade Center and prices do gradually come down again.” This is the case right now in the Brooklyn New York Real Estate Market according to Grandis. In the last six months we have seen a decline in the prices of homes and investment properties between 5% to 10%.”

When the real estate market is on a downtrend, Jeff Grandis can also help his clients make the best decision economically. Jeff Grandis, the full-service real estate broker with a personal touch.

For expert advise on making just the right choice and decision for your family call Jeff Grandis, your Brooklyn Neighborhood Real Estate Broker at 917-804-3198 or visit http://www.JeffGrandis.com for more insight into Brooklyn New York Real Estate.

Rima E. Laibow, MD, Distinguished Health Freedom Activist, To Serve as Contributing Editor on WomensRadio.com

Rima E. Laibow, MD, Medical Director of Natural Solutions Foundation, has been appointed as a Contributing Editor to the dynamic communication hub for women, WomensRadio.com. Dr. Laibow typifies the type of woman involved with this innovative portal for active women making changes by active women bringing those changes about.

Croton on Hudson, NY April 13, 2006 -- Rima E. Laibow, MD, well-known health freedom activist, has been appointed to the WomensRadio.com Contributing Editorial Board by Pat Lynch, Director of the web hub which focuses on women who impact the world. Dr. Laibow, a leading innovator in natural, drug free medicine for 35 years, is the Medical Director of the Natural Solutions Foundation, http://www.HealthFreedomUSA.org, a not for profit health and health freedom watch-dog organization headquartered in New York. She lectures, writes and speaks widely on issues touching on natural health and threats to natural health options in the US and abroad. These threats include domestic issues like invasion of medical privacy (http://www.healthfreedomusa.org/resources/articles/blood_sugar.pdf) and Codex Alimentarius, a multinational body currently setting dangerous food standards and threatening consumers' access to effective nutrients world wide.

The Natural Solutions Foundation watches, alerts consumers and legislators and meaningful provides action steps to counter threats to health and health freedom on both the US and global fronts. Dr. Laibow takes the health freedom message worldwide with radio interviews like this the one with WomensRadio.com, meetings with industry, consumer and government leaders worldwide, articles, newsletters, lectures, a Codex DVD (Nutricide: the DVD (http://www.healthfreedomusa.org/aboutcodex/dvd.shtml) and the Codex e-book (http://www.healthfreedomusa.org/aboutcodex/dvd.shtml).

Pat Lynch interviewed Dr. Laibow for the woman-run and woman-focused site, WomensRadio.com, on the issue of physicians to prescribe, and women's rights to select safer, gentler natural, individualized bio identical hormones in place of synthetic hormones with proved dangers. Bio identical hormones are plant-derived compounds which are made in laboratories and are identical to the hormones produced in a woman's body during her reproductive life.

When the National Institute of Health ended the Women’s' Health Initiative (WHI) nearly three years early (May 1, 2002) because of the grave dangers to women posed by the synthetic hormones manufactured and provided to the study by Wyeth (Premarin © and Prempro ©large numbers of women switched to bio identical hormones. The impact was a 68% decline in the sales of the "Premarin Family" of drugs between 2002 and 2004 according to the results posted by pharmaceutical giant Wyeth on their website (http://Wyeth.com).

On October 4, 2005 Wyeth filed a Citizen's Complaint with the FDA to make these natural hormones unavailable and to sharply curb the activities of the special pharmacists who custom make the creams, pills or suppositories in which these hormones can be incorporated. Although public comment was set to close on April 4, 2006, over 37,000 comments were received and the FDA's server reportedly collapsed under the volume of comments in the final days of the comment period. The comment period has been extended to May 4, 2006. Comments may be sent to the FDA at: Democracy in Action

Dr. Laibow was joined in the interview by Camilla Rees Camilla Rees, an Integrative Care Counselor, Cancer Guide and health industry consultant based in San Francisco who is founder of a new social venture focused on health care reform.
. Ms. Lynch was so impressed with both women that she invited both of them to join the Contributing Editors Board. Their interview can be accessed at Womens Radio.

Ms. Lynch is a dynamic and forward thinking communications specialist who has a history of bringing information to women and women to women through her use of communication strategies.

In 1996, she initiated the parent company of WomensRadio.com, Women’s Online Media and Education Network to “give women a greater voice!”

WomensRadio, a converging medium, had its beginning on the Web as a rich, content Website for women leaders, www.womensradio.com. In 2001, she inaugurated WomensCalendar (http://www.womenscalendar.org ), now the largest databank of women’s events in the world. It is #1 in the major search engines and reaches hundreds of thousands of women leaders each week. In the summer of 2004, the company launched the SpeakerSpot, a dynamic speaker referral program and MentorLine TeleClasses that women leaders can access from their homes or offices.

Ms. Lynch is not only a communication innovator, she is a technical innovator to support that communication. Most recently, she introduced a new audio production tool for the Web, AudioAcrobat. This service will help enable more people to have audio streaming in their emails and on their Websites. It can be the tool of choice for hundreds of broadcasting professionals who want to have their long-form programs included, both at WomensRadio “Hub” and the new WomensRadio Channel, a syndicated 24/7 all talk Web radio for women.

Ms. Lynch serves as the Media Chair for the California Women’s Agenda, a member of the Women’s Leadership Alliance of the Bay Area, is on the Board of Directors of the Afghan Coalition and Afghan Women’s Association International. She is a frequent speaker on the value of opening the media to women’s voices and creating new communication bridges to the future.WomensRadio.com is produced by Women's Online Media and Education Network whose world headquarters are located at 2121 Peralta Street, Suite 138, Oakland, CA 94607
Tel: 510-891-0006 Fax: 510-891-0003.

Made in Palestine NY Exhibit Extended Following 3,364 Visitors in 3 Weeks

Organizers of the Made in Palestine exhibit announced today that the New York show will be extended until May 27th, after seeing 3,364 visitors pass through the Chelsea exhibit, in the heart of New York's art world, during the first three weeks. Coming events include Def Jam Poets Suheir Hammad and Ishle Park.

New York, NY (PRWEB) April 11, 2006 -- Organizers of the Made in Palestine exhibit announced today that the New York show will be extended until May 27th, after seeing 3,364 visitors pass through the Chelsea exhibit, in the heart of New York's art world, during the first three weeks.

Made in Palestine is the first museum quality exhibition devoted to the contemporary art of Palestine to be held in the United States. It is a survey of work spanning three generations of Palestinian artists who live in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, the Galilee, Syria, Jordan, and the United States.

Come celebrate the extension of Made in Palestine this Friday, April 14th, at an exciting evening of performance at The Bridge to raise money for the exhibition, hosted by Suheir Hammad (HBO's Def Poetry Jam; "Zaatar Diva" author). Doors open at 6.00pm for art viewing, with readings and performances at 7.00pm by Maysoon Zayid (comedienne; NYAACF founder; MTV; 20/20), Ishle Park (HBO's Def Poetry Jam; 2004 Poet Laureate of Queens), Kathy Engel (poet & activist; MADRE founder), Ehab Zahriyeh (Poetic Injustice), Nigel Parry (songwriter: "This Side of Paradise"; Electronic Intifada cofounder), and TBA. $15/$10 sliding scale. Donations accepted.

The Made in Palestine Closing Celebration will take place on Saturday, May 27th, from 6.00-9.00pm at the Bridge.

After the conclusion of the Made in Palestine exhibit, The Bridge is proud to present another exhibit: "Three Arab Painters in New York: Samia Halaby, Sumayyah Samaha and Athir Shayota." Guest Curated by Maymanah Farhat, "Three Arab Painters in New York" will run from June 3rd to 24th, Tuesday-Saturday, 11.00am-6.00pm, with a reception on Tuesday, June 6th, 6.00-9.00pm.

Gallery Information
The Bridge Gallery
521 West 26th Street, 3rd Floor
(between 10th and 11th Aves)
New York, NY
Tel: 646-584-9098

Made in Palestine Exhibition Dates
March 14th-May 27nd, 2006.
Open Tuesday to Saturday.
11.00am-6.00pm.
Admission free.
Guided tours by artist and exhibit consultant, Samia Halaby, on Saturdays in April at 4.00pm.

Made in Palestine Closing Celebration
Saturday, May 27th, 2006.
6.00pm-9.00pm.

CAN HIPHOPPERS GO TO HEAVEN?

From Hip-Hop to Heaven Ministries Hosts A Virtual Prayer Service Tonight For Slain Eminem Protege Tonight at 9pm ~ 605-990-0200, Conference Code 984954#

New York, NY (BlackNews.com) - Rapper "Proof" from Eminem's platinum selling group D-12 was shot and killed early yesterday morning in Detroit. The gunfight left Proof dead, a bouncer seriously wounded and another black eye on the Hip-Hop community.

Since 2004, the From Hip-Hop to Heaven Ministries network has grown to include hundreds of Gen X'ers collectively looking to God for answers. Generation X grew up in the 80's, enjoyed the prosperity of their own businesses in the 90's and now, many in their 30's, are forced to make some serious decisions about the direction of their lives.

"It's not cool to be heading into your 40's and still getting shot at," says Saideh Browne, author of the book From Hip-Hop to Heaven and founder of a ministry that carries the same name. "Life after my Hip-Hop career was a very painful transition, but I made it and I'm happier because of it," she continues.

From Hip-Hop to Heaven Ministries hosts a prayer call every Wednesday night designed to uplift and empower. Tonight's call will feature a special prayer for Proof and Hip-Hop artists worldwide. "My goal is to simply reveal God to my generation, I encourage people to remain anonymous on the call, but know that we are praying with and for them."

Saideh closed her urban marketing firm once she made the transition into ministry but continues to use the same techniques to get God's loving message to the masses. The marketing mix of street teams and posters now includes Podcasting and TeleConferences; just more methods for keeping Jesus in the mix in 2006!

About the Company

From Hip-Hop to Heaven Ministries was founded by former Hip-Hop industry insider Saideh Browne. After years of working in various positions then starting her own urban marketing firm, Saideh exposed herself and her family to the prosperity and misogynistic landscape of the enticing yet destructive Rap music world. In 2003, she made her exodus.

After taking a year off to assess life and her place in it, Saideh wrote the book From Hip-Hop to Heaven, released in 2004, and later founded her ministry.

Saideh is proud of her college degree as well as all of her honors and achievements, but her true happiness is found as a wife and loving mom to her two sons. She is a published author, handles the day-today operations of a rapidly growing ministry and speaks at youth and faith based conferences and events around the country.

The From Hip-Hop to Heaven Youth Empowerment Conference DVD (recorded live in January 2006) and Mix Tape will be released in June 2006, in honor of Black Music Month.

Saideh Browne, author From Hip-Hop to Heaven and founder From Hip-Hop to Heaven Ministries is available for interview.

CONTACT:
Erica Jones
201-390-6904
www.FromHipHoptoHeaven.org

SIZZLING REGGAE SUNDAYS CELEBRATES ITS 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

New York, NY (BlackNews.com) - Sunday, April 2nd will mark the one year anniversary of Sizzling Reggae Sundays. The weekly dance party is hailed as "a revival" of the New York reggae scene. Sizzling Reggae Sunday's 1 year anniversary will pay tribute to a reggae icon, the late Garnett Silk. Garnett Silk was born April 2, 1966, he would have been forty years old this Sunday.

This week Sizzling Reggae Sundays will feature an all star line up of New York's premier DJs. DJ Jase of Point Blank Sound and WWRL 1600 AM Radio, DJ Silence of 107.9 Flava FM, DJs Kutter & Bradley of On Track Sound and MC Guidance International will all pay tribute to Garnett Silk's legacy. Visitors to the Sizzling Reggae Sundays website can sample audio clips of Garnett Silk by visiting the Music Room www.ReggaeSundays.com/musicroom.htm

"This Sunday is very special because we will pay tribute to an artist that epitomizes what Sizzling Reggae Sundays is all about. Garnett Silk's brand of reggae is the type of music we play and our fans love. It is the type of music that has propelled reggae into the forefront of world culture," noted producers Terry & Roger of SAi Entertainment. This duo is also behind New York City's longest running reggae dance party "Reggae Retro."

Each week Sizzling Reggae Sundays pays tribute to one of the icons of reggae music. Past tributes include Dennis Brown, Sizzla, Barrington Levy, Beres Hammond, Bob Marley, Capleton, Tanya Stephens, Richie Spice, Freddie McGregor, Sean Paul, Beenie Man, Rita Marley, Gregory Isaacs, Jacob Miller, Buju Banton and U-Roy.

Sizzling Reggae Sundays takes place at BKNY Lounge located at 887 Fulton Street at the corner of Vanderbilt Ave in Downtown/Fort Greene, Brooklyn, New York. Admission for the 1 year anniversary is free before 11PM and $5 after.

Sizzling Reggae Sundays is sponsored by www.StudioAde.com. Studio Ade is a natural hair salon that has garnered much attention for its innovative styles and approach to hair care.

What: Sizzling Reggae Sundays 1 year anniversary

Date: Sunday, April 2, 2006

Time: 10:00pm

Where: BKNY Bar & Lounge, 887 Fulton St., Corner Vanderbilt Ave. Downtown Brooklyn, NY

Admission: Free before 11PM, $5 after.

Info: www.ReggaeSundays.com or Telephone 718-701-4103

Audio Samples: Visit the Music Room www.ReggaeSundays.com/musicroom.htm

Katharine Gibbs School in Melville Expands Merit Based Scholarships

Scholarship program based on academic achievement will benefit up to 800 students at the school this year.

Melville, NY April 11, 2006 -- Approximately $600,000 in scholarships will be awarded by Katharine Gibbs School in Melville to enrolled students showing academic achievement in their course of study during the current academic year. This marks the highest dollar amount for merit scholarships the school has ever presented to students. The scholarships will be based on student GPAs and will be distributed at the end of each school quarter. By October 2006, between 600 and 800 students within the current student body across all disciplines will have been presented merit awards to supplement school expenses and tuition while enrolled at the school.

The scholarship program began in July 2005; this marks its first full year at Katharine Gibbs in Melville. The program will help for students enrolled in degree programs in subsequent years. The number of students and amounts of the scholarships will vary, and 200-250 are expected to receive awards each quarter. “These scholarships help students dramatically in their payment of tuition and books, and allow them to be rewarded for their academic achievement at the college,” said Patricia Martin, president of Katharine Gibbs School in Melville. “There are excellent scholars that deserve to be recognized for their accomplishments, and the scholarships will allow us to reward their effort and commitment. Katharine Gibbs in Melville is dedicated to supporting its students in making education affordable so they do not have to put their dreams on hold simply because they are unable to get funding.”

Because the scholarship is based on GPA, it is an ideal way to reward students’ day-to-day excellence as they pursue their degrees and certificates. The awards, coupled with other sources of financial aid for those who qualify, can strengthen the incentive for students to keep grades up and stay in school and complete their program.

Katharine Gibbs School in Melville is based in Long Island and offers a variety of career based programs of study such as Business Administration, Computer Network Operations, Criminal Justice, Digital Film, Graphic Design, Health Care Management, Office Administration, Network Systems Security, and Game and Web Design. Students at the school can obtain specialized associates degrees or certificates, which can help them prepare for the real work world. Gibbs participates in a variety of financial aid programs available for those who qualify, and continues to stay focused on opportunities to support students who qualify in funding their education by offering an online financial aid site which provides information on grants, loans, FAFSA forms and eligibility. The school also has an educated financial aid staff that can provide support to students throughout their enrollment at the school.

INVITATION TO ALL QUALIFIED BUSINESSES TO REGISTER FOR A FREE MWBE CERTIFICATION WORKSHOP SERIES

INVITATION

The HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE; NATIONAL MINORITY BUSINESS COUNCIL & NEW YORK CITY DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CARPENTERS

In cooperation with:
New York City Small Business Services; New York City Housing Authority; New York State Department of Economic Development; New York City School Construction Authority; Metropolitan Transit Authority; United States Small Business Administration.

INVITES ALL QUALIFIED BUSINESSES TO REGISTER FOR A FREE MWBE CERTIFICATION WORKSHOP SERIES.

THE CITY OF NEW YORK ALONE HAS A MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR BUDGET FOR UPCOMING BUILDING and CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS.

YOU MUST BE CERTIFIED AS AN MWBE BUSINESS TO GET A PIECE OF THE BIG APPLE!!!!!!!!

THE PROGRAM CONSISTS OF FOUR (4) SESSIONS, APRIL 17, 19, 24 & 26, THAT WILL GIVE YOU THE NECESSARY TOOLS TO COMPLETE A successful SUBMISSION, THE KEY FOR EXPEDITED APPROVAL.

Registration is FREE and limited to the first 100 responses.

*******************

For additional information please contact as follows:
Via telephone: 212 683 5955
Via fax: 212 683 5999
Via E-mail: mwbe@nycmhcc.com

A Bold Step Made By NYC's Top Weekly Newspaper, The Culvert Chronicles

New York, NY (BlackNews.com) - Serving the community with a newspaper that vows to give the truth to its readers, The Culvert Chronicles is ready to take the paper to the next level by making the paper free of charge. While conducting a feasibility study, it was revealed that this would increase their current circulation of 50,000 by 400%.

The news articles are vibrant and fresh. The Culvert Chronicles' approach to print media is on the cutting edge of cyber media communication. The paper includes articles by notable columnists as well as contributions from freelance writers and community members. The paper serves as an outlet to many who believe their feelings are not valued. The Culvert Chronicles addresses issues that should be all over the major newspapers but unfortunately are not.

Investigative reports and studies are one of the focuses of this Black-owned publication. Stories will address contemporary social issues in and out of New York State. It is the paper's mission to expose problems within our society and help find their solutions. The Culvert Chronicles hopes to encourage productive conversation amongst residents of the various communities that comprise New York City.

As an incentive to their current and potential advertisers, The Culvert Chronicles is offering to give a 'Buy one, get one free' special. For the advertisers that purchase one ad, they will get the next week free. With the retooling of the paper to now make it accessible to more consumers by making it free, advertisers are sure to take advantage of the better than competitive rates.

For any issues pertaining to the paper, please contact the newspaper at 718-276-0405. For advertising rates and demographics, please e-mail culverte@nyc.rr.com or call the number above. For out-of-state subscriptions, the cost is $25.00.

The Culvert Chronicles is the brainchild of Dr. Edward R. Culvert, notable sociologist and professor. He observed that the African American community needed a vehicle of free expression. The paper is bi-partisan and prints positive and informative news to all of the people of this New York City. He is quick to point out that the paper does not deal with tabloid news. We report news that emphasizes education, social issues and relative information. There are no hidden agendas. People who are doing positive things need be heard. The Culvert Chronicles gives a voice to the 'common folk' that make up this city.

Our website address is: Culvert Chronicles. Log on if you are on the run or in your office and read the articles of some of the top journalist in the city. They include Mayor Bloomberg, Queens D.A. Richard A. Brown, Poetess Juanita Torrence-Thompson, and sportswriter Robert Elkin. Editorials are welcomed and comments are welcomed on our editorial page and opinion page.

There are a lot of special things in store. Stay tuned.

Today's New York Business Event Listings

Apr. 27
Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, 4th Annual "Let Us Break Bread Together" Awards Gala, 6:30 p.m. $1,000. Rainbow Room, Rockefeller Center, NYC. (212) 889-4694.

Apr. 27
Urban Financial Services Coalition (NY), Dare to Be Remarkable:25th Annual Awards and Scholarship Dinner, 6:00 p.m. NY Hilton, 1335 Ave of the Americas, NYC. Visit www.ufscny.org.

URBAN FINANCIAL SERVICES COALITION HONORS INDUSTRY LEADERS AT 25TH ANNUAL DINNER

New York, NY - The Urban Financial Services Coalition - New York Chapter (UFSC-NY) has announced that its 25th Annual Awards and Scholarship Dinner will be held on Thursday, April 27, 2006 - 6:00 p.m., at the New York Hilton, 1335 Avenues of the Americas (at 54th Street), New York.

This year's honorees include: Financial Services Institution of the Year - CIT Group; Financial Services Executive of the Year - Maurice L. Coleman, Senior Vice President, Bank of America; Diversity Champion of the Year - Ted Childs, Vice President, IBM; Diversity Champion of the Year - Deborah Elam, Vice President, General Electric; Hume B. Smith Award - Albert Garland, Vice President, CIT Commercial Services; UFSC-New York Member of the Year - Jennifer D. Davis, Assistant Treasurer, The Bank of New York. The Mistress of Ceremonies will be Shon Gables, CBS. The Key Note Speaker will be Dr. Dennis Kimbro, Author of Think and Grow Rich. The theme for this year's event is "Dare to be Remarkable".

UFSC-NY President, Anita L. Pierce spoke passionately about the significance of this year's Awards Dinner as the organization celebrates its 35th year. This event will honor business and community leaders for their outstanding contributions. In addition to honoring business and community leaders, over twenty young people will be awarded scholarships for their academic excellence. "Dare to be Remarkable, challenges our members, honorees, and scholarship recipients to step out of their comfort zone and reach for their highest potential," Pierce said. "Our honorees for this year have spent their entire careers doing remarkable things that have set them unique. We are proud of the significant number of scholarships, which we are able to give out each year. We are truly the preeminent financial services trade organization in the tri-state area," continued Pierce.

UFSC-NY formerly the Urban Bankers Coalition was established in New York City in 1971. Prior to its founding, minority-banking professionals had organized local banking groups to meet needs bypassed by existing national banking associations. When bankers from different parts of the country began to discover the value of information sharing among associates from city to city, they organized local chapters into a national network under the umbrella of the National Association of Urban Bankers. Over the years, UFSC-NY has grown and changed to meet the needs of the dynamic industry it serves. It has become an all-encompassing association for individuals in the financial services industry.

UFSC-NY promotes personal and professional growth of its members as well as collectively articulating concerns and marshaling resources to improve the economic development of communities that are often under-served by majority-owned institutions. The underlying goals and objectives include fostering the interests and expanding the numbers of minorities in financial services; increasing community service activities in low-income communities; enhancing scholarship programs for minority youth in pursuit of financial services careers; and cultivating a premiere job bank of experienced minority financial services professionals.

"The Annual Awards & Scholarship Benefit Dinner is UFSC-NY's main fundraiser and it allows us to recognize individuals and businesses that have made significant contributions to the financial services industry and the community at large. It also allows us to recognize and support promising high school and college students through our scholarship program where we award tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships annually," said Pierce. This year through its foundation, Urban Bankers Coalition Foundation, UFSC-NY will award $50,000 in scholarships to students who dare to be remarkable.

In addition to its many professional endeavors, UFSC-NY is committed to presenting positive influences for tomorrow's business leaders. Its efforts in this area include the development of mentoring relationships with several area high schools, addressing students during career days and serving as panelists at various college forums.

For all inquiries including Awards Dinner tickets, contact UFSC-NY at (212) 621-7727 or visit www.ufscny.org

Today's New York Business and Commerce Listings

Apr. 20
U.S. Small Business Administration/The KIP Business Report, How to Find, Hire and Pay Skilled Workers, 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Free. 26 Federal Plz Rm. 3305, NYC. Visit www.kipbusinessreport.com/success_series

Apr. 26
Queens Economic Development Corp, Queens-A Taste of the World, 6:30 p.m. $60. Douglaston Manor, 63-20 Commonwealth Blvd, Douglaston, QNS. (718) 263-0546.

Apr. 27
Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce & Industry, 21st Annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, 6:00 p.m. (718) 834-4544.

Today's New York Business and Professional Events

Apr. 8
New American Chamber of Commerce, Franchise Seminar, 1:00 p.m. Free. 26 Court St. Suite 701, BK. (718) 722-9217.

Apr. 11
Church Ave Merchants Association, Credit Repair & Money Management, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Free. 884 Flatbush Ave - Fl 2, BK. (718) 282-2500 X242.

Apr. 13
The Network Journal/The Professionals Network Organization, Power Networking Affair, 5:30 p.m. Free. 40/40 Club, 6 W 25th St (betw 6th/Bway), NYC. jones.tammy@yahoo.com

New York Events Today

National Action Network, Are Blacks Projected Fairly in the Media?, 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Free. NY Sheraton Hotel & Towers, 53rd St & 7th Ave, NYC. (212) 603-3704.
Apr. 6

New American Chamber of Commerce, Franchise Seminar, 6:30 p.m. Free. 26 Court St. Suite 701, BK. (718) 722-9217.

Apr. 8
National Assoc of Negro Business & Professional Women (Central Nassau), 47th Annual Founder's Day Luncheon, 12-4:00 p.m. $60. Long Island Marriott, Uniondale, NY. (516) 483-9442.

Today's New York Business and Industry Events

Church Ave Merchants Association, How to Buy a Home, 6:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Free. 884 Flatbush Ave - Fl 2, BK. (718) 282-2500 X242.
Apr. 6

Democratic Leadership for the 21st Century, The Democratic Party in the 21st Century: A Blueprint for Reform w. Eliot Spitzer, 7:30 p.m. Members-free, Guests-$7.00. 58, 41 E 58th St, NYC. (212) 979-2218.
Apr. 6

Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (Queens), One-Stop Small Business Expo & Seminar, 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Free. LaGuardia Community College, 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC, QNS. (718) 505-1003.
Apr. 6

Beautiful Tudor Home for Sale just 30 minutes from Manhattan

Must see Tudor Home for Sale See Details Below

Kitchen 

Living Room 

A TRADITIONAL NEW WORLD TUDOR

29 Cross Hill Avenue, Yonkers , NY 10703

A TRADITIONAL NEW WORLD TUDOR Updated And Adapted For Modern Living. Gourmet Kitchen - Central Air Conditioning - Spa Bathroom

Built In 1930, With Architectural Details Of The Period - Stained Glass Windows, Hardwood Elements and Spacious Rooms.

A Backyard Insulated By Mature Evergreens, Plantings and Shrubs Provides A Private Retreat For All To Enjoy.

Easy Commute TO NYC- 30 Minutes via Metro North - 20 Minutes via Saw Mill /Henry Hudson - 15 Minutes To White Plains

For Additional Information Contact...
Kenneth Diaz, Associate Broker
Office: 914 798 9132, realtor@att.net
Prudential Rand Realty

$469000 - RENOVATED RANCH, TIANA SHORES

This 3 bedroom ranch has been renovated: new kitchen, bath, refinished wood floors throughout, upgraded 200 amp electric, hot water heater. It is south of the highway, .40 acre, oil heat, low taxes, close to the beach. Asking $469,000. Please call or e-mail: 917-743-0164.

159 W. Tiana Rd at Montauk Highway

$1750 / 1br - Upper West side amazingly huge 1 Bedroom Rental

Upper West side amazinglly huge 1 bed. MARBLE BATH, HARDWARE FLOORS, HUGE Living ROOM, HUGE Bedroom,
Tons of closet. Very sunny. Perfect location. Steps from 1-2-3 Line, near everything. JACOB @ 212.695.0600

LOOKING FOR A 1 BD OR STUDIO CO-OP

To Agents and Home Sellers: I'm a Fillmore Real Estate agent assisting 3 buyers; 1 looking for a studio willing to pay up to $175K pet friendly building and the other 2 buyers are looking for a 1 BD co-op in Bay Ridge willing to pay up to $275K. If you are willing to co-broke or if you are an owner and it sounds good to you, let's talk soon. I have showed them a few properties but nothing they liked quite yet, I need to find them something soon!

Thanks!

Isabel Tobin - (646) 244-9907
Toll Free (877) 963-4222
http://www.BrooklynNYProperties.com

$399000 / 4 Bedroom - 3 Bathroom Colonial

See this beautiful home below...

Contact: Real Estate Circuit, Inc.Gina Clarkphone: 845-344-1480

Picture of Beautiful 3 Bathroom Orange County Colonial 

Beautiful 3 Bathroom Colonial in Orange County

Minisink Schools, 1.6 acres and a quiet road are just the beginning for this great colonial. You will enjoy entertaining in the kitchen that opens to the family room with fireplace. Or step out onto the deck for the B-B-Q! A great level yard for football games or even horseshoes with friends. After all the fun enjoy a soak in the master bath. The main level offers a full bath for convenience of family and friends that stay over! Hardwood floors, central air, large windows and many more features make this a must see home. Call today!

New York Events for April 6th

NY/NJ Minority Supplier Development Council, RFX Training Session, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Council certified MBEs-$30; Others-$45. PSE&G Edison Training & Development Center, Edison, NJ. (212) 502-5663.
Apr. 6

Aetna Small Business Solutions/The New York Enterprise Report, Secrets to Running a Successful Business, 7:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Free. Brooklyn Marriott, 333 Adams St, BK. (646) 723-1267.
Apr. 6

Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Citibank Power Breakfast Membership Meeting, 8:30 a.m. Apr. 6

New York Business Events for April 4th 2006

ACCION NY, Understanding Your Credit, 5:30 p.m. Free. 115 E 23rd St Fl 7, NYC. (212) 387-0494. Apr. 5
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African American Chamber of Commerce (Westchester/Rockland), 7th Annual Business-to-Business Exchange, 7:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. $175. Crowne Plaza Hotel, White Plains, NY. (914) 699-4749.
Apr. 5
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NAACP (Brooklyn), Freedom Fund Reception & Awards Ceremony w. Bruce Gordon, 5:30 p.m. $75. Brooklyn Marriott, 333 Adams St, BK. (718) 362-1670. Apr. 5